Chapter 17 - The Exenbra Commerce Guild
Despite planning to sleep in, I woke up early out of habit.
Some of the group are heavy sleepers, but most wake up around sunrise. It's quite early.
Of course, with alcohol, it might be different. But there's nothing to do at night, so we've gotten into the habit of early to bed, early to rise.
Before breakfast, I do some light exercises, a short run, and some strength training. I work up a light sweat and clean up with a purification spell. A proper bath would be nice, but I'll have to wait until we reach the city.
For breakfast, we finish up the leftover ingredients. Once we're in the city, we'll eat out, so it's best to use everything up.
After some casual conversation, it's the perfect time to leave.
"Let's go!"
Since I'm unfamiliar with the city, I decided to sit in the back and let someone else drive.
From our campsite, we could see the city gates, but there was a line of vehicles waiting for inspection.
This process takes longer than expected. They register a temporary pass on everyone's Record. Breaking this pass is a crime, and extending your stay incurs additional fees.
The initial registration is free, but you have to pay to extend your stay or register as a resident.
There are various fees depending on your stay, but it doesn't concern us for now, so we don't worry about it.
I try to avoid unnecessary complications.
"They check the cargo as well, not just the Records. That's why it takes so long."
"Wow. Wouldn't it be a hassle to check every truck? Is there no magic to speed it up?"
"Low-level magic tools can miss valuable items. They pretend to be thorough but are actually looking for prey."
"Ah, so they're trying to find a reason to pick on us."
That's concerning. What if we, a group of women, are in trouble?
We have treasure on board, which could make us a target.
"Don't worry. We've hidden the treasure under the sheets and will greet them politely."
If Josephine says so, we should be fine. It's my first time, so there's not much I can do.
We wait nervously, and finally, it's our turn.
Several officers board our vehicle to start their inspection.
From what I've observed, they seem more friendly and polite than I expected. They haven't been rude to us so far.
They might be cautious, considering we're a group of women who could be someone's property.
"Everyone, please show your Records. We also need to inspect the cargo, so please cooperate."
"We have all our Records ready. Please check them. We've also opened the cargo area for your convenience."
Josephine stepped forward, handing over the stack of Record Cards and slipping a small gem into the officer's hand.
Ah, a bribe. That's how it works.
The officer glanced at his palm and gave a subtle nod to his colleagues.
"Thank you for your cooperation. What's the purpose of your stay?"
"We're thinking of staying for a while and might register as residents if we like the city. For now, that's the plan."
"In that case, you should visit the district office for registration. There will be an inspection. As for the cargo, there are no issues. Welcome to Exenbra!"
The inspection after the bribe was much quicker. We weren't even asked to unload anything.
I'm relieved we made it in safely.
Still, the gatekeepers' attitude was surprisingly good. I expected worse, but the first impression of the city isn't bad.
Thinking about it, the gatekeepers are the face of the city. Since everyone passes through, their behavior reflects the city's reputation. Being polite, even if not overly so, is only natural.
As we drove through the large gate, a wide avenue stretched straight ahead.
Many cities have a central square where guilds are concentrated. Exenbra is no exception, with various guild buildings clustered around the main square. The Commerce Guild should be easy to find.
We slowly made our way toward the center.
Vehicles are rare in the city, owned mostly by the wealthy or merchants. Most people travel on foot or by kickboard-like magical devices, which we see many people using.
I couldn't help but look around. The city has a practical, functional vibe, with many people dressed in practical clothing. As we moved, the streets became livelier with more people and stalls.
However, not everything is positive.
We also saw many somber faces, likely refugees. Some men with poor appearances seemed to be looking for prey. There are also many people from neighboring countries, and the city's safety is questionable.
While the first impression is good, it's best to avoid walking alone without strength or courage, especially at night.
We arrived at what seemed to be a roundabout with the main square. The area was filled with large buildings, each displaying a unique sign to identify the guilds. We quickly found the Commerce Guild.
The Commerce Guild, designed for merchants, had a large underground parking area to accommodate large vehicles like trucks.
The architecture and various artificial constructs, enhanced by magic and magical devices, were of a quality that rivaled or even surpassed my hometown. There were many things I couldn't immediately understand, sparking my curiosity.
Ah, the difference between a bare minimum camp and a bustling city is clear. I'm getting excited.
Parking the vehicle was easy, and we were directed to a spot without any fuss.
Being a group of women drew some stares, but otherwise, it was smooth.
We entered the Commerce Guild, moving confidently as guests of the director. There's no need to be shy in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar faces.
I casually scanned the surroundings.
At the back of the floor, a neat reception area with tidy receptionists and waiting security guards greeted us.
Many merchants were interacting with the receptionists, giving the impression of a thriving business. It might even be wartime, given the bustling activity.
After observing for a moment, I approached an open counter, where a receptionist greeted us with a polite smile.
"Welcome to the Exenbra Commerce Guild. How may I assist you today?"
Her well-trained demeanor feels oddly familiar, despite being in a different world.
Politeness is good, and I have no complaints.
"...Ah, I'm here to see Director Jallens. I'm here to collect a favor, as you might recall."
"I'll check... Please wait in the reception room. Jallens is currently with a visitor, so there might be a short delay. I apologize for the inconvenience."
The receptionist remained polite and smiling, even with my vague explanation. I realize I hadn't introduced myself.
Jallens must have informed them of our visit. Otherwise, it would be impossible to see him. He's quite considerate. It's a close call.
"Where's the reception room?"
"A staff member will show you. The reception room is a bit cramped, so would you mind if only the representative joins the meeting? The others can wait in the lounge."
Hmm, it's probably fine. It wouldn't be a trap, right?
If anything happens, I'll deal with it then. For now, it's best to play it safe.
"Onee-sama, I'll go with you."
"Alright, Valeria. Let's just the two of us. Sorry, everyone, you'll have to wait."
"Sure, we'll wait in the lounge. Please take care."
I took the bag with the treasure and, with Frederica and the others' encouragement, followed the staff to the upper floor with Valeria.
The reception room had a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a vase with flowers and paintings on the walls. The staff left us alone.
But no tea was offered. Is this normal?
I decided to make my own. Using a familiar spell, I generated an aluminum cup and poured a red tea-flavored recovery potion. I took a sip.
I looked around for any interesting magical devices but found nothing that immediately caught my eye.
As I idly wandered the room, the door suddenly opened. Our appointment, I assume.
It hadn't been long, so I was surprised to see it was a stranger. Who is he?
"So, you're the one who came to see Jallens. A woman?"
Who is this guy? I stopped Valeria from lunging at him.
"Hmph, Jallens is busy. He has no time for the likes of you. You should leave now."
I'm not sure what his problem is, but he seems to want to drive us away.
He looks like a young, pampered son of someone important, a hanger-on of Jallens, perhaps.
Given the circumstances, I doubt Jallens would betray us. This is probably the young man's own decision.
"Who do you think you are?"
"Onee-sama, what should we do?"
Her eyes asked if it was okay to take him down.
I don't want any unnecessary bloodshed. We haven't received our favor yet, and we still need to exchange the treasure. Being driven away would be inconvenient. Besides, while I'm prepared for a fight, it's best to avoid trouble early.
If he's a problem, we can deal with him after confirming Jallens' betrayal.
That's the logical approach.
But even if I want to avoid trouble, I can't just follow this brat's orders. It's not in my nature to back down.
First impressions are important. I'm not one to back down, so a fight is inevitable.
"Valeria, stay put. Got it?"
With that, I ignored the brat and sat down on the sofa, stretching my legs onto the coffee table. The movement was so forceful that some tea spilled. I couldn't care less.
What's wrong with sitting on a sofa?
You should be grateful for the view of my beautiful legs.
If he has something to say, I might listen.
Did my attitude surprise him? He seemed taken aback.
He quickly regained his composure and approached, his face red with anger.
"You! What do you think you're doing? Didn't you hear me?"
"You're loud. I'm the guest here. Who are you to interfere? I'll crush you."
I glared at him, emphasizing my last words.
"Wh-What! You, a woman, have the nerve to—! I won't stand for this!"
"Huh? I don't know you. Who are you? Besides, I don't need your permission. Shouldn't you be the one leaving?"
Sigh. This is frustrating.
The brat, losing his patience, reached out to grab me. What an idiot.
His movement was slow and weak, the kind you'd expect from someone who's never fought before.
Still in my relaxed position, I grabbed his collar and threw him. He crashed into a cabinet, making a loud noise, but he didn't seem seriously injured.
Maybe he hit a bad spot, but it's his own fault. He should be grateful I let him off with just that.
I ignored the brat and sipped my cold tea.
Then, I heard hurried footsteps, and the door opened. It was the mustachioed old man, Jallens. Finally.
"What's going on here!"
He must have heard the commotion. Someone might have heard us.
We're in a lower position, but we've done nothing wrong. The camp is gone, and we're just using the facilities.
"Was this your doing? He barged in and started making unreasonable demands, even trying to attack me. Remember our agreement, right? I don't care who you are. I don't back down from a fight. If you betray me, there will be consequences."
I pointed at the brat on the floor and glared at Jallens, maintaining a threatening demeanor.
He understands the power we wield against numerous thieves. He must realize the importance of avoiding trouble. Still, I'm deliberately intimidating him.
The brat's actions have made Jallens owe us a favor. I'll take full advantage of it.
"Of course not! What are you saying? Wait, is this true? I apologize, but I had no intention of betraying you. I will honor my word."
"Really? Then who's this guy?"
"This is... I apologize, but this is my nephew, Morgast. Morgast, you should leave now. I informed the staff that important guests would be arriving."
"But, this is—"
"This is an important guest and a benefactor. Morgast, you're disgracing the Jallens name. Leave now. You have other duties, don't you?"
Jallens sternly ordered the brat to leave. He hobbled out, but not before giving me a dirty look.
"Jallens, I expect you to settle the score for this brat's behavior as well."
"Of course. I apologize sincerely."
His sincerity makes it hard to push further.
I got up from the sofa and refilled my cup with hot tea, inviting Jallens to sit across from me.
"I had some matters to discuss with you. I'll overlook the nephew's behavior for your sake, but I'd like you to help us in any way you can."
"Of course, I intended to do so. I must thank you again for your assistance. Allow me to introduce myself properly: I am Jallens of the Exenbra Commerce Guild. May I have your name?"
"Ah, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Shinogami, and this is my little sister, Valeria."
Valeria stood behind the sofa, ready to protect me, which was quite cute.
"Shinogami-sama and Valeria-sama, welcome. Now, what matters would you like to discuss?"
We wasted some time, but Jallens is busy, so let's get to the point.
"First, we need to exchange the treasure we took from the thieves. Also, we need recommendations for a place to stay."
"Treasure, you say? That sounds interesting. I'll waive the appraisal fee and offer you a special price. May I see the items?"
Valeria placed the bag on the table and started arranging the jewels and trinkets.
"Impressive quantity and quality. I'll call an appraiser. Please wait a moment."
He used a bell-like magical device, and an appraiser arrived promptly. He carefully appraised each item and discussed the prices with Jallens.
We already know the value from Frederica and Josephine's expertise, so I won't argue as long as the prices are reasonable. I'm counting on the special price.
I sat back, sipping my tea, while Valeria watched the appraisal. The appraiser confirmed the gold coins and left.
"...After careful consideration, including the quality, I believe 200 million Gist would be a fair price. Of course, we've applied a discount."
This is more than I expected, but I have no complaints.
"That works. Can you take my Record?"
"Certainly."
He started working on a pedestal-like magical device. When I placed my Record on it, a cheerful chime sounded, and numbers appeared on the screen.
"The payment is complete. Please confirm."
I checked my Record, and the amount had indeed been credited.
Great, we're set for a while.
It's hard to believe we got this much money so easily, but it's real.
Useful connections are invaluable. I hope we can maintain a good relationship.
Now, about a place to stay. I hope we can find a good one."
We finally made it to the city.
Next, we need a place to live.